Southern Stingray on a Wreck

One of the great things about scuba diving is the unique opportunities divers have to be immersed in wildlife. North Carolina wrecks are the local underwater hangouts for numerous marine creatures and we take full advantage of that fact whenever we dive. We have a full range of animals from tiny crabs and fish to large sand tiger sharks that all call our wrecks home.

Sharks naturally garner the lion's share of attention from divers but there are all sorts of creatures around that are often extremely well hidden. Southern stingrays such as this one often lie in the sand camouflaged until a diver comes near. Divers are often shocked to see a large plume of sand go flying as a hidden flounder or stingray glides gracefully away. The southern stingray can get quite large with females reaching almost 5 feet across. Since they have a venomous spine in their tales it's a good idea for divers to watch their buoyancy while near the sandy bottom to avoid an unplanned encounter.

Southern stingrays routinely hang out around the North Carolina wrecks and ledges so pay attention when you are diving! The key as with most marine creatures is giving them a healthy distance while observing and taking photos. If you would like to join us on our next adventure to see animals like this then just contact us to join in the fun!